October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time for people to participate in numerous events and activities that raise money for breast cancer research. The city of Frederick hosts many events during this month, such as donating to organizations, fundraisers, walks/runs for breast cancer, and more.The Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund is an organization that hosts events for breast cancer awareness like the Pink Ribbon 5K run and the Pink Ribbon Gala. Frederick Health also hosts a highly informative breast cancer symposium each October. Many people participate in these events because they know someone, either a family member, friend, or co-worker, who has had breast cancer.
“Participating in a fundraising event can take some of the helpless feeling away for people who are watching loved ones struggle with this disease,” Patty Hurwitz, co-founder of Hurwitz breast cancer fund, expresses, “For our 5K run, we have a Survivors’ Ceremony where we honor survivors and remember those who lost the fight.” The Hurwitz Breast Cancer fund has donated over $3.5 million dollars to breast cancer patients in the past 25 years.
“Breast cancer is when someone has a lump, mass, or growth in their breast and the danger is if not caught early enough and treated it can spread to other parts of your body,” Pamela Flickinger, an employee at the Bettie Jane Cancer Foundation, notes. This understanding of the dangers of breast cancer drives many to participate in fundraising efforts and raise awareness.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is important for women that have been affected by this disease. “1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes, and we know that early detection of breast cancer saves lives. So we want women to be educated about getting their mammograms regularly as recommended,” Hurwitz explains. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, people can share experiences with one another to bring them closer together and raise awareness.
Frederick offers various ways to support individuals affected and those that know someone who has been affected. “The Frederick community is such a giving place, on so many levels. These events give people an avenue for making a difference in this fight,” Hurwitz shares.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important time for the Frederick community to come together and support those affected. Through events like the Pink Gala and Frederick Health’s educational symposiums, people not only raise funds but are able to share their stories and experiences. This effort spreads awareness and encourages early detection, which can save lives. By participating in these activities, we can make a difference through raising awareness and supporting those impacted by breast cancer.
